Bladder incontinence or loss of bladder control is a condition characterized by involuntary leakage of urine from the bladder or inability to hold urine. Urinary incontinence can occur at any age but it is more common in old age. According to the research, in U.S. more than 13 million people including men and women are suffering from this condition.

Loss of bladder control can occur due to:

• Stress: Certain condition like coughing, sneezing, laughing, exercising or lifting heavy objects causes incontinence.
• Urge or overactive bladder: Condition when you can’t hold urine for long time.
• Overflow: Occurs when bladder cannot emptied completely
• Mixed: Involves more than one type of urinary incontinence

Bladder is the organ that holds urine. Sphincter and bladder wall muscles control the flow of urine. When the bladder is full with urine, the bladder wall muscles contracts and squeezes to release urine out of the bladder. However, ability to control urine depends upon the normal functioning of the nervous system as it sends signals to respond to the urge to urinate.

Causes of loss of bladder control:

• Certain drugs like diuretics, antidepressants cause bladder incontinence.
• Weak or overactive bladder may also cause loss of bladder
• Urinary tract infections or vaginal infection leads to bladder incontinence problems
• Nerve and muscle disorders also cause urinary incontinence
• Tumors in the brain or bladder affect your ability to control urine.

Bladder incontinence or loss of bladder control is a common problem but is can lead to serious health problems like skin infections, sores, depression, sleeping disorder, urinary tract infections if remain overlooked. The treatment depends upon the causes and kind of bladder problems. Certain dietary changes, bladder control exercise like Kegal exercise make pelvic floor stronger and helps to control bladder incontinence. In addition, incorporate roughage and fiber in your diet to avoid constipation, avoid carbonated foods and beverages that irritate your bladder, keep your blood sugar under control in order to control loss of bladder.